Engine overheat damage?

[jmdearras]

I just bought another MX-3, a 1993. Overall good shape, new tires, new from dealer starter, good enough value for $300.

The reason he sold it is he overheated the engine this past summer, and "it gradually slowed down and stopped". I looked, and the PS/water pump belt is missing. It still cranks, but I have not had the chance to hear it myself, just towed it home. I know in some engines that is fatal, and others take it better. Looking for feedback on damage to expect from others who have dealt with it.

Should I bother with the engine, or not. Could it have just fried the distributor?

If you don't have input to make, and just want to critize me for not having instantly done hands on testing in sub-zero wind chill while working 3 jobs, please don't reply. I'm just trying to preplan my limited time to look in the most productive areas.

Thanks!

Jim

[solo_ryder]

Well by what he told you the motor is probably pooched. The heads will warp if the motor overheats for a long enough time and that will cause the headgaskets to fail. So the chances of it running well again after what he told you are proly slim. You can check for spark if you want, but it sounds like the motor has taken a crap.

[fowljesse]

You might as well try it. Mine overheated a few years ago due to Thermostat failure, but I shut it off right away. Then, about a month ago, it happened again, due to not haveing enough antifreeze. This time I ran it on "H" until I got off the freeway. I've heard of these engines being okay after overheating before.
Check the coolant for oil, and oil for coolant. That would tell you for sure. If it's warped, you can use the new stuff on a used KLDE engine, and drop it in. I would buy a good MX-3 with a completely blown engine for $300.

Why would you assume someone would criticize you?

[jmdearras]

You might as well try it. Mine overheated a few years ago due to Thermostat failure, but I shut it off right away. Then, about a month ago, it happened again, due to not haveing enough antifreeze. This time I ran it on "H" until I got off the freeway. I've heard of these engines being okay after overheating before.
Check the coolant for oil, and oil for coolant. That would tell you for sure. If it's warped, you can use the new stuff on a used KLDE engine, and drop it in. I would buy a good MX-3 with a completely blown engine for $300.

Thanks. Yea, I think it's a good deal with a blown engine, that was my assumption when I bought it.

Why would you assume someone would criticize you?

I was criticized before for asking for opinions and guesses for a problem where they thought i could have easily checked the engine myself. Short days and long hours give me more time available on a computer than on my cars!

I am anxious to get a charged battery in it, and hear it crank. You can tell a lot just from the sound of it turning over. The sunroof had leaked, and the car is currently in a open field 1/3 mile from my house, so it can get sun and wind to dry it out.

Thanks, again


Jim